Rep. Eric Swalwell posted on X that House Republicans are confident support for Donald Trump is waning, particularly regarding the Epstein files. Swalwell cited conversations with Republicans, who anticipate a potential “jail break” of over 100 members if a discharge vote on the files occurs. Despite some Republicans calling for the release, House Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to swear in Rep. Adelita Grijala, whose vote could decide the release of the files. Trump himself has stirred controversy by expressing a willingness to consider a pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell, sparking criticism even from his supporters.
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Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leading to widespread power outages in Kyiv and other regions. The attacks, which included missile and drone strikes, are believed to be a tactic deployed in the past, aimed at depriving Ukrainians of essential resources ahead of winter. Ukrainian officials reported casualties and injuries, including the death of a child, and significant damage to energy facilities, causing interruptions to power and water supplies. The government is actively working to restore power and water, with repair crews deployed across the affected regions.
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AP News reports that Peru’s Congress voted early Friday to remove President Dina Boluarte from office due to the government’s failure to address rising crime rates, immediately replacing her with legislative leader José Jerí. This decision followed a late-night debate and impeachment trial initiated after lawmakers accepted multiple requests for Boluarte’s removal, fueled by recent events including a shooting at a concert in the capital. Boluarte, who had taken office in December 2022 after her predecessor’s impeachment, was Peru’s first female president and the sixth leader in under a decade. Jerí, set to serve as interim president until elections in April, aims to defend Peru’s sovereignty and hand over power to the election winner.
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In response to China’s new export controls on rare earth minerals, President Trump threatened significant retaliatory measures. He announced the potential for “a massive increase of Tariffs” on Chinese imports, as well as other countermeasures under consideration. Trump’s post also included a threat to cancel his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. These announcements followed China’s implementation of new regulations requiring licenses for the export of products containing rare earths, a move that caused stock markets to decline.
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AP News reports that the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) received a $300 million infusion from the Trump administration this week, mitigating potential funding issues during the government shutdown. This program, which supports over 6 million low-income mothers and children, was at risk of running out of money due to the shutdown. The administration utilized unspent tariff revenues to keep WIC operational, allowing states like Alaska and Washington to continue funding their programs. Critics have pointed out that both the White House and House Republicans have previously sought to cut the program.
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Tensions have arisen within the Department of Energy (DOE) between experienced government personnel and a private sector team, described as the “Colorado and DOGE crew,” who are reportedly less inclined to adhere to established procedures. Initially, the DOE was prepared to announce $30 billion in funding awards, but the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) intervened, postponing the announcement to leverage the funds. Subsequently, the OMB Director announced an $8 billion cut to lawfully approved energy project funding, targeting 16 Democratic-led states, while the fate of the remaining $22 billion, predominantly allocated to Republican districts, remains uncertain.
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In a 2002 email to then-National Security Advisor, Lord Mandelson described Jeffrey Epstein as “safe,” while suggesting a meeting between Epstein and Tony Blair. The email detailed Epstein’s interests in scientific entrepreneurship and global markets. Mandelson further stated Epstein was young, vibrant and frequently traveled with Bill Clinton. Handwritten notes on the email raised questions about the meeting, but the content of these notes remain largely illegible.
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A 15-year-old Houston teen who went missing after October 4th has been in ICE custody since Monday. The teen disappeared while selling fruit with his mother when he asked to use the restroom and never returned. After a local organization, FIEL, helped the family publicize the situation, it was revealed that the boy was in a Houston-area detention center. Though the teen is reportedly safe, his family is currently working to secure his release.
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Miller’s use of the first person in describing his actions within the administration raises concerns about his authority and influence, especially given his unelected position. Social media users have expressed alarm, pointing out that Miller appears to be making decisions regarding the deployment of federal agencies and National Guard units. Furthermore, the author criticizes Miller’s portrayal of potential scenarios involving military action in Southern towns, suggesting that such actions would likely be met with resistance.
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John Q. Hosedrinker